South Dakota House Passes Cellphone Ban for Young Drivers

PIERRE - The South Dakota House has resurrected and passed a measure that would prohibit beginning drivers from using cellphones until they get unrestricted licenses at age 16.

The House narrowly rejected the bill last week. But representatives on Monday voted 43-23 to pass the measure, which now goes back to the Senate for consideration of a change made by the House.

Supporters say young drivers should not use cellphones because it increases the chances they will crash. Opponents say there's no proof banning cellphones reduces crashes.

Much of Monday's debate was spent on an amendment proposed by Rep. Stace Nelson of Fulton, who unsuccessfully proposed that beginning drivers also be prohibited from activity such as having sex or talking back to adults. Other lawmakers say they were insulted by his proposal.